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The ports industry notes developments in Parliament this evening and some in our sector will have real concern about the increasing possibility of a ‘no deal’ Brexit outcome. We would urge the Government to clarify its alternative plans immediately and do whatever is necessary to avoid a disorderly withdrawal from the EU.

It is important to remember that, in the seemingly unlikely event that this deal is agreed by Parliament, this is the beginning of a process, not the end of it. We have yet to negotiate more than the basic principles behind our future relationship with the EU and there remains much to be agreed, including fundamental questions around if and how goods are checked and handled at the border.

The BPA is looking at challenges and opportunities facing UK ports beyond Brexit this year, although potential new border controls, changes to environmental and regulatory rules and a new fisheries policy remain as major themes for the industry in 2019.

Responding to the publication of the National Infrastructure Commission’s interim report into the Future of Freight, the British Ports Association has called on Government to review its freight strategy and prioritise port connectivity initiatives.

Following reports of a number of instances around the presence of defective pilot ladders on visiting ships and the regular use of dangerously weighted heaving lines by some vessels at UK ports, the British Ports Association has called on the international shipping community to face up to these ongoing safety issues.